Kairos Shen named Boston's chief planner

Mayor Thomas M. Menino today named Kairos Shen, director of planning at the Boston Redevelopment Authority, as the city’s new chief planner.

Shen will work with BRA director John F. Palmieri to create a comprehensive long-term vision to guide economic and physical changes in the city, Menino said in a news release. His annual salary will be $156,000.

The position had been vacant since Rebecca Barnes left in May 2005.

‘‘Kairos is a proven leader and has the experience to articulate, illustrate and implement a comprehensive long-term vision for Boston,’’ Menino said in the release. ‘‘We must be more proactive in envisioning and creating economic growth — and I know Kairos is the right person to lead this effort.’’

Shen will lead a new subcabinet for planning and development to coordinate agencies throughout city government. He will also continue to head the BRA’s planning division, with expanded duties at the authority.

Shen often speaks for the city about development issues at public meetings and has been involved with multiple planning efforts, including guidelines for the Longwood Medical Area, plans for Fenway neighborhoods, and shaping the emerging South Boston Waterfront and Fort Point Channel areas.
(By Thomas C. Palmer Jr., Globe staff)